Mainland Industrial License in Abu Dhabi, UAE
Overview of the Industrial License
If you are looking to obtain an industrial license in Abu Dhabi or the UAE, here’s what you need to know. This license is specifically for businesses engaged in transforming natural resources or raw materials into finished products. A key requirement for securing this license is having a physical warehouse located within the UAE.
The Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development is responsible for issuing this license, and you will also need to obtain approvals from the Abu Dhabi Municipality and other relevant authorities.
Activities Covered Under the Industrial License
The industrial license encompasses various activities, including but not limited to:
- Textile Manufacturing
- Bread Manufacturing
- Food Industries
- Paper Manufacturing
- Petroleum Products Manufacturing
- Metal Casting Industries
- Equipment and Engine Manufacturing
Documents Required for an Industrial License
To apply for an industrial license, you will need to provide the following documentation:
- A detailed report outlining the industry or factory, including the plan, objectives, equipment information, manufacturing costs, capital and source of finance, employee details, and other relevant information.
- Passport and residence copies
- Feasibility study
- Partnership contract (if applicable)
- Approvals from the National Media Council, Ministry of Environment and Water, Ministry of Interior, and Ministry of Health
- Balance sheet copy
Conditions to Meet
Before applying for the industrial license, ensure you meet the following requirements:
- Local License: A local license is mandatory for industrial operations, issued from the area where your business will be located.
- Capital Requirement: A minimum capital of AED 250,000 is required.
- Employee Requirement: A minimum of ten employees is necessary.
- Physical Space: You must have a physical office and warehouse.
Advantages of an Industrial License
- Economical rates for water, electricity, and other essential utilities.
- Reduced costs available for innovative products.
- Priority for high-quality products during official government procurement.
- Subsidized rates for land designated for industrial activities.
- Financial support from the government during research and development if your products contribute to the national economy.
Steps to Obtain an Industrial License
- Initial Approval: Start by obtaining initial approval from the relevant authorities.
- Apply for License: Contact the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development to submit your application for the license.
- Processing Time: The application process typically takes about three months.
- Notification: Upon approval, you will receive a notification from the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, which generally takes fifteen days.
- Construction Permission: Prior approval from the Abu Dhabi Municipality is required for factory construction.
- Ministry Approvals: You will also need the necessary approvals from relevant ministries and agencies, including the Ministry of Health and Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
- Final Approval: If all goes smoothly, you will receive final approval within two weeks. You must complete the construction of the industrial space within six months.
Obligations After Approval
Once your industrial license is granted, you will need to:
- Submit all required data to the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, including a letter stating your intended start date for industrial activity. The department will issue a certificate of authorization.
- Notify relevant authorities about your inclusion in the register of industries.
- Submit any changes or amendments regarding your factory to the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development.
- Comply with the requirement that properties allocated by the government for industrial activity cannot be leased or sold.
- Prepare and submit employee data to the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development.
- Adhere to federal laws, which mandate that 25% of employment opportunities are granted to local Emiratis.
- Maintain strict compliance with hygiene, health, and industrial safety standards.
- Follow all relevant policies, rules, and regulations.
- Report any changes in the appointment of directors to the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development in writing.
- Provide regular reports to concerned authorities.
Obtaining an industrial license can be complex and challenging. For assistance and guidance through every step of the process, reach out to our business consultants today!